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Tips, tricks, hacks and news about Mac OS 10.6Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:12:50 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2Exploring the New Features in Lion Releasehttp://snowleopardtips.net/news/exploring-the-new-features-in-lion-release.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/exploring-the-new-features-in-lion-release.html#commentsSat, 24 Sep 2011 00:12:52 +0000adamhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=540When Apple’s official announcement of a new operating system became public at the company’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, Mac users went into a frenzy of excitement. The new operating system incorporates more than 250 new features. Apple has heralded the release as one of the greatest improvements of Mac OS in recent years, and is expecting users to migrate to the new operating system en masse once it becomes available.

One of the biggest features Lion introduces is the addition of several multi-touch gestures that will allow Mac users to control their applications and software in a more intuitive way. For individuals who already use Apple iOS devices, such as the iPad and the iPhone, many of the new gestures will likely seem like second nature. Just like the mobile devices, Lion will allow computer users to pinch to zoom and swipe to navigate through pages. Additional gestures include tap to zoom, a feature that quickly zooms in on whatever you are viewing with the simple tap of your fingers.

Another exciting innovation Lion will be incorporating is full-screen applications. This allows users to easily use every single pixel on their screens, without wasting a single centimeter of screen space on cumbersome menus or icons. Multi-touch gestures will allow you to easily switch from full-screen mode to standard mode, making it simple to change applications.

Mission Control is perhaps one of the most exciting features of the new operating system. By swiping three fingers down on your keypad, you will be given a bird’s eye view of your entire system. All of your open windows and applications will be visible in this space, and specially designed spaces at the top of the control center allow you to place shortcuts to frequently used programs and applications. Accessing any part of your system requires nothing more than a click of your keypad.

Beyond Mission Control, Apple is also introducing a new feature known as Launchpad. This screen will display all of your computer’s applications, all of which can be arranged as you see fit. Furthermore, new applications will automatically appear in this area of your computer, making it easy to keep track of everything on your system.

Resume is another incredible feature Lion is bringing to the Mac. This great option allows you to easily jump back into your work after restarting your computer. Furthermore, applications open to whatever you were working on previously. Auto Save and Versions further solidify the new concept of continuing wherever you last left off without an user input required.

In addition to all of the great features available in the latest release of the Mac OS, Apple has changed the delivery method for users who choose to upgrade to Lion. Instead of the traditional CDs that contain the necessary data for your computer, Lion can be downloaded through the Mac App Store. As soon as it becomes available, existing Mac users can download Lion immediately and begin experiencing all of these great features for themselves.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/news/exploring-the-new-features-in-lion-release.html/feed0Microsoft’s Attempt to Copy Snow Leopardhttp://snowleopardtips.net/uncategorized/microsofts-attempt-to-copy-snow-leopard.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/uncategorized/microsofts-attempt-to-copy-snow-leopard.html#commentsThu, 21 Jul 2011 09:37:44 +0000adamhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=554If you are a fan of Apple’s computing options, you already know that using Snow Leopard provides a certain ease that other operating systems simply can not provide. From easy options for searching your system, to the ever present dashboard found at one side of your screen, Apple has pioneered a more user friendly operating system. Many of the customers who have transitioned to Apple over the past few years have credited the easy to use operating system for their decision.

Rampant accusations of Microsoft using Apple’s OS for inspiration first began with the release of Windows Vista. In fact, Steve Jobs and Bertrand Serlet poked fun at the situation at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2006. The overall design of the operating system evokes a sense of déjà vu for many computing users. Indeed, the system’s attempt to make the files more easily viewable in a “Finder” of sorts, coupled with the overall design aesthetic, led many users to feel that the Microsoft product had copied Apple’s OS. Furthermore, most felt it was a cheap copy, as Vista had poorly written code that caused many computer users issues.

Shortly after Windows 7 was released in October of 2009, an official from the company made headlines across the globe by declaring that Microsoft had indeed tried to copy many popular features of Apple’s Snow Leopard operating system. If there had been laughter towards the entire situation before, this time around users of both systems got involved in a vicious online war of words, with aficionados of both operating system hurling insults and accusations. Once the comments had been made by Simon Aldous, who is a Microsoft partner group manager, the company jumped into action, denying that his statement was an accurate portrayal of Microsoft’s strategy.

Nevertheless, the damage had been done. So, what in fact did Aldous say that reflected so negatively upon Microsoft? “What we’ve tried to do with Windows 7 – whether it’s traditional format or in a touch format – is create a Mac look and feel in terms of graphics.” Essentially an employee of Microsoft declared to the world was many Mac users already felt to be the case: Apple’s operating system had been copied. Microsoft’s Communications Manager Brandon LeBlanc later labeled Aldous’ comments both “inaccurate and uninformed.”

While this debate is perhaps one that will never have any sort of resolution, at this point it is obvious that Microsoft is trying to play catch up with Apple. In addition to gaining popularity rapidly, particularly amongst computer users, Apple is way ahead of the game. Features in Snow Leopard like fully integrated 64-bit support and QuickTime X do not fade in the least bit in comparison with Microsoft’s offerings, and this doesn’t seem slated to change anytime soon.

Ultimately, as anyone who has used both operating systems knows, as much as the products from Windows and Apple may evolve in similar design patterns, the two are as different as can be. Window’s further transition to a product code named Midori, which is believed to be a Windows-replacement, could potentially further highlight the difference between computer running Mac OS and a Windows product. As the war of words continues between diehard fans of both computers, Mac users are confident that Apple will continue to remain on top.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/uncategorized/microsofts-attempt-to-copy-snow-leopard.html/feed0Snow Leopard sells better than previous versions of Mac OShttp://snowleopardtips.net/news/snow-leopard-sells-better-than-previous-versions-of-mac-os.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/snow-leopard-sells-better-than-previous-versions-of-mac-os.html#commentsThu, 17 Sep 2009 18:17:40 +0000adminhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=316NPD Group, a market research company that tracks retail sales, has put out a press release today stating that Snow Leopard sales far exceed prior launches of Apple operating systems. “Snow Leopard sales were more than two times higher than Leopard’s initial release sales and almost four times higher than Tiger.” The company claims that although the latest version of Apple’s operating system was considered by some to be less “feature-focused” than Leopard and Tiger, it’s low $29 price tag and ease of upgrade made it a no-brainer for Apple users.

This is interesting news since it seemed to be perhaps the most criticized release of Mac OS precisely because of early claims that it contained little or no new features. However, Apple played it’s marketing very well and made it incredibly easy for users to upgrade. That was the tipping point. At the same time, Apple users expected a simple upgrade procedure chiefly because of the service-pack perception surrounding this new version of Mac OS.

There is little doubt that Snow Leopard sales will continue to increase as the fall selling season is just a pounce away. New Macs, rumoured to be arriving soon, would also send OS X sales numbers soaring. On the other side of the fence, Windows 7 will be released in October. Can this potentially have an impact on new Mac users who were already planing on switching to Mac this Christmas? Please, share your thoughts.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/news/snow-leopard-sells-better-than-previous-versions-of-mac-os.html/feed1Buying AppleCare on eBay. Go ahead, it’s ok.http://snowleopardtips.net/news/buying-applecare-on-ebay-go-ahead-its-ok.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/buying-applecare-on-ebay-go-ahead-its-ok.html#commentsMon, 07 Sep 2009 00:32:56 +0000adminhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=215AppleCare is a great investment on any Mac, especially on a MacBook. But peace of mind comes at a price and the Apple Store’s isn’t cheap.

My one year manufacturer warranty nearly up, I recently realized that I wasn’t ready to let my MacBook Pro go naked for the next 2 years. I take it everywhere and since AppleCare had served me so well on my previous PowerBook G4, I knew wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I sat idly as my warranty expiration date slipped by. Until I saw the price, 350€ (about $500 USD)! *Gulp* I knew it would be expensive but it seemed as though I had paid a lot less for it the last time. Unfortunately for me, that’s because I bought my previous Mac when I was a student, a title I no longer carried.

About two days before game-over, I was talking to a colleague and fellow Mac user about what I would inevitably have to do. That’s when he tells me: “Dude, just get it on eBay. You’ll get it for like half the price.” He then went on to tell me that he had bought his AC from eBay for his MBP, speaking about it as if it was as easy as pie. “You buy it and they send you the AppleCare number by email. All you have to do after that is go to the Apple site and register it to your product. Piece of cake.”

I didn’t quite believe it at first thinking he may have been exaggerating but quite to the contrary, and my surprise, you can buy AppleCare on eBay for about 50% less of the Apple Store retail price! I looked and hesitated for a while but found one Power Seller with 100% feedback. Since I had already spoke with Apple on the phone, I knew I only had only 48 hours left to purchase and register my warranty. I sent a message to ameenterprises asking if I would receive the AppleCare reference number in time. In about 30 minutes I had a reply from a gentleman named Adam telling me to email him directly when I bought it and he would make sure I get it before the of my warranty.

So with much hesitation, I clicked the Buy Now button and paid $166 USD for my AppleCare. Within a day, Adam had emailed me back with my registration number and the steps needed to link the service plan to my MacBook, which took about 5 minutes! Within 10 minutes, I had a email from Apple confirming my MacBook Pro would be covered for an additional two years!

So if you’re hesitating about buying Apple Care on eBay, don’t. It’s simple, it’s quick and you’ll save a bunch of money. But don’t get it from anyone. Adam from AME Enterprises is your man. Check out his listings, I’m sure you’ll find what your looking for. And tell him I sent ya.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/news/buying-applecare-on-ebay-go-ahead-its-ok.html/feed10Two full days of Snow Leoaprd technical conferences at Macworld Expo 2010http://snowleopardtips.net/news/two-full-days-of-technical-conferences-at-macworld-expo-2010.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/two-full-days-of-technical-conferences-at-macworld-expo-2010.html#commentsWed, 02 Sep 2009 12:37:39 +0000adminhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=186The 2010 Macworld Expo which takes place a between February 9th and 13th 2010 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco will feature two days of Snow Leopard dedicated content.

Snow Leopard Session Highlights Include:

Upgrading to Snow Leopard details the installation process itself and how users can prepare to upgrade, avoid installation problems and proactively troubleshoot.

Working with Services in Snow Leopard focuses on the services that Snow Leopard makes downright convenient to use, including managing the Services menu, adding and removing services, identifying cool things you can do with services and situations where services don’t work.

Text Magic in Snow Leopard highlights all the new text magic tools, including bidirectional language support, a revamped user interface for the Keyboard Viewer and Character Palette, on-the-fly text substitutions, and interesting new capabilities in TextEdit.

Finder Power User Techniques (“Don’t Enter Data Twice!”) emphasizes how to speed up workflow in the Finder by customizing windows and using Smart folders and Spotlight to quickly find information, as well as how to use tagging to better organize your data.

Working Between Multiple Apps shows users how to better exchange information among the various applications on their Mac, as some of the Apple apps are very well integrated, but the ways in which they can interact is not always obvious to the user.

Video with Snow Leopard: Putting QuickTime X to Work demonstrates how to navigate the new user interface; use the features of the new QuickTime to capture audio and video; prepare media for use with your iPhone, iPod or Apple TV; push video to You Tube and Mobile Me; and use H.264, AAC, streaming and performance technologies to improve your media experience.

Taking Accessibility to the Next Level in Snow Leopard teaches users with disabilities how to increase and enhance their accessibility with new and innovative technologies designed to get the most out of their Mac.

Apple has given the go-ahead on an iPhone App for Spotify, a free music streaming service currently in invitation beta and available in a select few European countries. This news is a great shock as the service directly competes with the functionality and business model of iTunes.

Spotify’s business model is ad based but they also offer a premium version for 10 Euros per month (about $13 US) with no ads and exclusive content.

In recent months, many have been calling for iTunes to adapt a similar subscription model. Can we expect Apple to buy Spotify in the coming months?

Spotify has made huge strides in Europe since it was launched in October 2007 and has over 2 million users in the UK alone. They hope to have their service available in the US by the end of 2009.

Perhaps the greatest feature about this app (as demonstrated in the video) is that it will allow users to store playlists for offline listening, a feature previously not available on the desktop version. Look out for Spotify in the App Store soon.

What are your thoughts on this? React by leaving a comment.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/news/breaking-news-apple-approves-iphone-app-for-spotify.html/feed0Apple publishes a list of printers and scanners compatible with Snow Leopardhttp://snowleopardtips.net/news/apple-publishes-a-list-of-printers-and-scanners-compatible-with-snow-leopard.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/apple-publishes-a-list-of-printers-and-scanners-compatible-with-snow-leopard.html#commentsTue, 01 Sep 2009 12:25:38 +0000adminhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=170In my experience, installing a printer on a Mac has always been a “I can even do it with my eyes closed” kind of task. Albeit most of the printers I’ve owned have been HP which are usually pretty well supported. And I have never tried to install a scanner on a Mac. I guess experiences may vary.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/news/apple-publishes-a-list-of-printers-and-scanners-compatible-with-snow-leopard.html/feed1Show us your Snow Leopard!http://snowleopardtips.net/news/show-us-your-snow-leopard.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/show-us-your-snow-leopard.html#commentsTue, 01 Sep 2009 09:20:08 +0000adminhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=164Justine Ezarik (a.k.a iJustine) who is apparently big fan of Dailybooth, has a thread going where you can post a picture of yourself with Snow Leopard. It’s quite amusing to see the useless things people will do with a webcam.

Source : iJustine.com

For those of you who don’t know, Dailybooth is the newest form on online narcissism where the aim is to post pictures of yourself everyday.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/news/show-us-your-snow-leopard.html/feed2Snow Leopard uses Core Location to determine your current locationhttp://snowleopardtips.net/news/snow-leopard-uses-core-location-to-determine-your-current-location.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/snow-leopard-uses-core-location-to-determine-your-current-location.html#commentsSun, 30 Aug 2009 08:58:18 +0000adminhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=66Snow Leopard introduces a new slice to the Apple Core Framework, CoreLocation. As the name suggests, this new set of developer tools allows the operating system to find your approximate location. Although the iPhone has a similar framework that allows it to triangulate its location using cell towers, this is the first time this technology had been implemented in a computer operating system.

The new feature utilizes the Mac’s built-in networking hardware to find its location using IP data and is most likely based on the same Geolocation technology added in the latest version of Mozilla Firefox.

iPhoto 09′s Places feature has utilized GPS meta data to catalog photos by the location in which they where shot but this is the first time an Apple product other than the iPhone has been able to determine it’s own location without GPS support.

Snow Leopard uses CoreLocation to determine the computer’s current time zone. It will be interesting to see how developers uses this feature to enhance their own applications.

Mac OS Snow Leopard utilizes the Core Location Framework to find it's current location. Here we see how it can be used to determine the computer's current time zone.

]]>http://snowleopardtips.net/news/snow-leopard-uses-core-location-to-determine-your-current-location.html/feed1Mac OS Snow Leoaprd is here!http://snowleopardtips.net/news/mac-os-snow-leoaprd-is-here.html
http://snowleopardtips.net/news/mac-os-snow-leoaprd-is-here.html#commentsSun, 30 Aug 2009 07:12:47 +0000adminhttp://snowleopardtips.net/?p=62It’s finally here! After being announced over a year ago at WWDC, Mac OS Snow Leopard has arrived and life couldn’t be any sweeter.

The installation process has never been simpler on any version of Mac OS. Simply insert the DVD and in less that 15 minutes, Mac has had a full makeover. The migration from 10.5 (Leopard) is completely seamless. You even get a free gift, 6GB of extra storage on your hard drive! Is it safe to say this is a first?

And for $29 who wouldn’t want to upgrade. Apple has released the new version of its operating system at the lowest price ever for a new OS version. Five-computer family packs are only $49. Like I said, life couldn’t be any sweeter.